Brunei Darussalam's 3rd Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0)
Made 2025-09 · Text as of 2026-10-01
Public law and official guidance, published as research. Not legal, tax or financial advice.
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- policy
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- Brunei
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- Energy, Environment, Waste and hazardous substances
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- bioenergy, biodiversity, climate change, data collection/reporting, education, emissions, business/industry/corporations, emissions pricing, governance, monitoring, non-governmental entity, recycling/reuse, renewable energy, taxes, transport/storage, waste management, fiscal and market measures, oil, waste non-domestic sources, solid waste
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1.0 BACKGOUND 7
1.1 Introduction 7
1.2 National Circumstances 8
1.2.1 Geographical and Physical Content 8
1.2.2 Climate 8
1.2.3 Population 9
1.2.4 Economy 9
1.3 Brunei Darussalam GHG Emissions (2010-2023) 10
2.0 NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTION (NDC) 12 2.1 Brunei Darussalam’s Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) 12
2.2 Information for Clarity, Transparency and Understanding (ICTU) 12 ANNEX 1 COORDINATING MINISTRIES AND AGENCIES RESPONSIBLE FOR CLIMATE ACTIONS 27 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1.1 Map of Brunei Darussalam 8 Figure 1.2 Real GDP and Sectoral Composition Annual Rate of Growth, 2011-2023 10 Figure 1.3 Trends of GHG Emissions and Removals, 2010 – 2023 11 Brunei Darussalam’s 3rd Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) GASES Gas Explanation CH4 Methane CO2 Carbon dioxide HFCs Hydrofluorocarbons N2O Nitrous Oxide PFC Perfluorocarbons SF6 Sulphur Hexafluoride UNITS Unit Explanation °C Degree Celsius CO2e Carbon Dioxide equivalent Mt Million tonnes MtCO2e Million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent | Page 5 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS Abbreviations Explanation AFOLU Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land-Use AR5 Fifth Assessment Report ARWG Adaptation and Resilience Working Group BAU Business As Usual BCCO Brunei Climate Change Office BNCCC Brunei Darussalam National Council on Climate Change BNCCP Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy BTR Biennial Transparency Report COP Conference of Parties D Default IPCC methodology and emission factor DDS Department of Drainage and Sewerage DEPR Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation DEPS Department of Economic Planning and Statistics DoAA Department of Agriculture and Agrifood DOE Department of Energy EF Emission Factor ETF Enhanced Transparency Framework EVWG Electric Vehicle Working Group ExComm Executive Committee on Climate Change FRA Forest Resources Assessment GDP Gross Domestic Product GHG Greenhouse Gas GWP Global Warming Potential ICT Information and communications technology IEWG Industrial Emissions Working Group INDC Intended Nationally Determined Contribution IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPPU Industrial Processes and Product Use LNG Liquefied Natural Gas LULUCF Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry MD Managing Director MPG Modalities, Procedures & Guidelines MOFE Ministry of Finance and Economy MPRT Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism MRV Measurement, Reporting and Verification NAP National Adaptation Plan NGO Non-Governmental Organization NDC Nationally Determined Contribution SWDS Solid Waste Disposal Sites | Page 6
1.0 BACKGROUND
1.1 Introduction In line with its obligations under Article 4, paragraph 2 of the Paris Agreement which is to prepare, communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions, and in accordance with decision 1/CP.21, Brunei Darussalam has developed and submitted its third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat. This document presents and outlines Brunei’s post 2020 climate actions and reflects its ongoing commitment to enhancing climate ambition every five years as mandated by Article 4, paragraph 9 of the Paris Agreement. Brunei Darussalam’s first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 1.0) was submitted to UNFCCC in 2015 in the form of an Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC)1. Brunei further submitted its Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 2.0) to the UNFCCC on 30 December 2020 committing itself to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 20% relative to Business-As-Usual (BAU) levels in 2030, using 2015 as the baseline year. Brunei Darussalam’s NDC 3.0, covering the implementation period 2026–2035, is based on the BAU projection for 2035, which remains consistent with the projections set out in NDC 2.0 to maintain continuity and comparability across submissions. Ongoing sectoral assessments will provide updated data and are expected to be incorporated in subsequent reporting cycles. Building on the foundation of the 2020 NDC (2.0), the NDC 3.0 introduces both enhanced and new commitments, supported by the latest data and developed through an inclusive process. It integrates national climate goals with existing frameworks such as the Wawasan 2035, Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP)2, Energy Masterplan and etc. These strategies collectively offer a comprehensive plan for sustainable development, embedding climate resilience into economic and social planning. These efforts not only advance the implementation of the Paris Agreement but also help drive progress toward Brunei’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While Brunei Darussalam’s GHG emissions are relatively low on a global scale, the country is acutely vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. Observable climate shifts in Brunei include a warming trend of approximately 0.25°C and a rise in annual rainfall by 100mm per decade. These changes have contributed to more frequent, unpredictable and severe flash floods, forest fires, strong winds, and landslides. These climate-related challenges threaten Brunei Darussalam’s natural environment, economic stability, and the well-being of its population. 1The INDC targets are non-binding in nature and are intended as indicative commitments to signal Brunei Darussalam’s policy direction and aspirations in addressing climate change. 2 The Government of Brunei is in the process of updating the Brunei National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP) to ensure its continued relevance in addressing emerging challenges, aligning with the latest scientific findings, international obligations under the Paris Agreement, and the country’s long-term vision for sustainable and climate- resilient development. | Page 7 Recognising the need to remain actively engaged in both global mitigation and adaptation efforts, Brunei remains fully committed to fulfilling its obligations as a party to the Paris Agreement, delivering on its NDC commitments, and achieving its net-zero ambitions. To this end, the country will continue to take significant steps to advance its mitigation, adaptation, and climate planning initiatives.
1.2 National Circumstances
1.2.1 Geographical and Physical Context Brunei Darussalam is a small Southeast Asian nation covering 5,765 square kilometres and located on the northern coast of the island of Borneo, bordered by the South China Sea to the north and surrounded by the Malaysian State of Sarawak on three sides. Brunei experiences a tropical rainforest climate characterised by high humidity, heavy rainfall, and consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. While generally free from natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, the country does experience seasonal monsoons contributing to substantial rainfall. Figure 1.1 Map of Brunei Darussalam Source: Nations Online Project NOP (2022)
1.2.2 Climate Brunei has an equatorial climate characterised by a uniform high temperature, high humidity and heavy rainfall. Weather is influenced by the monsoon systems known as northeast monsoon | Page 8 and southwest monsoon. The northeast monsoon season occurs from December to March and southwest monsoon season occurs from June to September. The two seasons are separated by two transitional periods known as inter-monsoon periods of which the first occurs in April and May, while the second period occurs in October and November. The country generally experiences wet conditions throughout the year with average annual rainfall of 3,000 millimetres (mm) (2010-2014). Being in an equatorial climate country, the temperature is hot throughout the year. Temperatures range from 23 to 32 degree Celsius (°C), while rainfall varies from 2,500 mm annually on the coast to 7,500 mm in the interior. There is no distinct wet season. However, Brunei is already experiencing evident changes in climate pattern. The country’s mean temperature has already increased by 1.25 °C since 1970 with the warmest year recorded in 2019. Brunei also recorded a new highest daily rainfall in 2019 and highest cases for forest fire in 2019. At present, biodiversity loss is estimated to be around 40%.
1.2.3 Population The population of Brunei sits roughly at 450,500 in 2023 with an average annual growth rate of approximately 1% with most residents living in urban areas, particularly in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, located in the Brunei-Muara District. The nation enjoys a high standard of living, largely due to significant revenues from oil and gas production, which dominate its economy and account for a substantial portion of its GDP, government revenue, and exports. This economic reliance on fossil fuels is a critical factor in its national circumstances, especially in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
1.2.4 Economy Brunei’s economy has traditionally relied heavily on its natural resources, particularly the oil and gas sector. In 2023, the oil and gas industry (upstream, downstream, power and trade) accounted for 58% of GDP, and about 92% of the nation’s exports. The primary exports from this sector are crude oil, petroleum products, and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). While there has been progress in diversifying the economy away from oil and gas, the wealth generated from this sector continues to play a crucial role in developing other areas of the economy. Additionally, Brunei’s major downstream industries remain heavily tied to oil and gas. A significant portion of the country’s economic activities also benefits from substantial subsidies funded by revenues from the oil and gas industry. In its efforts to diversify away from oil and gas and promote sustainable economic growth, Brunei has implemented several long-term strategies. The Vision 2035 Strategy3 focuses on diversifying the economy, enhancing private sector growth, and fostering investments in non-oil sectors. The Ministry of Finance and Economy (MOFE), in its 2021 Economic Blueprint4 for Brunei, outlined five key areas for economic diversification: downstream 3 Brunei’s long-term strategic plan known as Wawasan Brunei 2035 aspires for Brunei Darussalam, by the year 2035, to be known worldwide as a country with: An Educated, Highly-Skilled and Accomplished People; a High Quality of Life; and a Dynamic and Sustainable Economy. 4 Brunei Darussalam’s Economic Blueprint: Towards a Dynamic and Sustainable Economy to plan the country's economic direction towards achieving the Third Goal of Brunei Vision 2035 which is a Dynamic and Sustainable Economy. | Page 9 oil and gas, food, tourism, information and communications technology (ICT), and services, indicating a strategic shift towards reducing economic dependency on hydrocarbons. The trend in real GDP growth is also indicative of the consequence of production of oil and gas. As shown in Figure 1.2, the positive economic growth of the economy is heavily dependent on the level of oil and gas production, except when other sectors, such as the downstream sector, experience significant expansion. The effects of the dependence on oil and gas are not only limited to the structure of the economy, but also government finance. The Government relies primarily on revenue from taxes, incomes, and royalties from oil and gas companies. Over the recent years, the country has experienced budget deficit except in 2018/2019 and 2022/2023, which were driven by high oil and gas prices during these periods. Figure 1.2 Real GDP and Sectoral Composition Annual Rate of Growth, 2011-2023 Source: Department of Economic Planning and Statistics, 2024.
1.3 Brunei Darussalam GHG Emissions (2010-2023) Brunei’s total gross GHG emissions stood at 14.60 MtCO2e (Million tonnes CO2 equivalent) in 2023. As illustrated in Figure 1.2, emissions have steadily risen over a decade, from 9.88 MT CO2e in 2010 at an annual growth rate of 3.1%. The Energy Sector has consistently been the most significant emission source since 2010, driven by activities in the oil and gas industry, transport, and electricity generation. In 2023, 92% of total national emissions came from the Energy Sector, followed by IPPU (6.1%), Waste (1.3%) and Agriculture (0.3%). The emission spikes for Energy Sector in 2020 was due to the commissioning of Brunei’s first coal-fired powerplant for industrial purposes. Emissions from IPPU also saw a significant increase due to the inclusion of emissions from Brunei Fertiliser Industry (BFI) in the inventory. When the net emissions from LULUCF are excluded from the national totals, the overall emissions amounted to 10.2 MtCO2e in 2023. | Page 10 GHG removals and emissions are estimated based on changes in above and below ground biomass, dead organic matter, and soil organic carbon on Brunei’s forestland. Emissions from forestland were estimated from carbon loss due to human activities such as deforestation and forest fires. GHG removals for the period of 2010-2023 is illustrated in Figure 1.3, indicating fairly constant net removals in the sector throughout the inventory period. The activity data are derived from forest cover assessment and national forest inventory5. Figure 1.3 Trends of GHG Emissions and Removals, 2010 – 2023 15 13 11 9 7 5 3 Million tonnes CO2 equivalent 1 -1 -3 -5 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Energy Sector IPPU Sector Agriculture Sector Waste Sector Sink/Removals 5Based on Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) 2015 Country Report. Brunei’s forest inventory is expected to be updated by Mid-2025 which also includes data on biomass carbon stock. | Page 11
2.0 NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTION (NDC)
2.1 Brunei Darussalam’s Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) Brunei Darussalam intends to reduce its GHG emissions by 20% relative to Business-As-Usual (BAU) levels by 2035.
2.2 Information for Clarity, Transparency and Understanding (ICTU) The information below is to help provide further clarity, transparency and understanding of Brunei Darussalam’s third Nationally Determined Contribution for the timeframe 2026-2035. 1. Quantified information on the reference point, including, as appropriate, a base year 1a. Reference year(s), base The reference year used in Brunei Darussalam’s NDC 3.0 is year(s), reference period(s) 2015, the same as Brunei Darussalam second NDC or other starting point(s); submission (NDC 2.0). Revisions to the baseline data were made to reflect corrections and recommendations arising from a third- party verification process. 1b. Quantifiable information on • Brunei Darussalam’s total gross GHG emissions in 2015 the reference indicators, (base year) were 10.24 million tonnes of carbon dioxide their values in the reference equivalent (MtCO2e). year(s), base year(s), reference period(s) or other • Brunei Darussalam’s total gross GHG emissions in 2023 starting point(s), and, as were 14.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent applicable, in the target (MtCO2e). year; • Under the Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario, Brunei Darussalam’s GHG emissions are projected to reach 30.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) by 2035. This projection reflects anticipated economic and demographic growth, assuming no additional mitigation measures beyond those already in place. | Page 12 1c. For strategies, plans and N/A actions referred to in Art 4, para 6, of the Paris Agreement, or policies and measures as components of nationally determined contributions where paragraph 1(b) above is not applicable, Parties to provide other relevant information; 1d. Target relative to the Brunei Darussalam’s new NDC target will be to reduce reference indicator, GHG emissions by 20% relative to a Business-As-Usual expressed numerically, for (BAU) scenario by 2035, using 2015 as the baseline year. example, in percentage or amount of reduction; Emissions are tracked in terms of absolute GHG in MtCO2e. These emissions are compared against a Business as Usual (BAU) scenario, which represents the projected emissions trajectory in the absence of any additional mitigation measures or policy interventions, and integrated into the overall NDC target. This approach helps to quantify the impact of implemented actions, assess progress toward emission reduction targets, and highlight the deviation from the baseline trajectory. The new target is conditional and contingent on technological maturity and effective international cooperation. Brunei’s ability to fulfil its NDC, like all developing country Parties, will depend on the provision of support for Means of Implementation (MOI) – Finance, Technology and Capacity Building from Developed Countries in addition to appropriate economic circumstances for Brunei. 1e. Information on sources of The sources of data used in quantifying the reference data used in quantifying points are the following: the reference point(s); I. Brunei Darussalam’s National Greenhouse Gas Inventory. II. Energy data from the Department of Energy (DoE) which includes fuel consumption and electricity generation data. These data include data | Page 13 collected from facilities under the Oil and Gas Industry. III. Industrial Process data sourced from relevant industries in the Chemical Sector compiled through the Department of Energy (DoE). IV. Agriculture and land use data obtained from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood (DoAA) and the Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT). V. Waste Sector data from the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development. VI. Population and economic data from the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS), Ministry of Finance and Economy. VII. Methodological guidance from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 2006 Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories and the 2019 Refinement to the 2006 IPCC Guidelines. 1f. Information on the Brunei may update the base year data in future NDCs on circumstances under which the basis of 1) Substantial changes in national the Party may update the circumstances, such as new industrial facilities or values of the reference significant shifts in population or GDP projections, that indicators; materially affect baseline or reference projections. 2) Improved data availability or quality of current inventory gaps especially for IPPU and AFOLU Sectors, 3) adoption of new policies or strategies that materially affect sectoral outputs, emissions intensity and 4) additional technical analysis from a new forest inventory assessment to be completed by Q4 2025. The NDC commitment will be delivered through strategies outlined in the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP), encompassing actions across key sectors such as energy, land transport, forestry, and waste. The Government of Brunei is in the process of updating the Brunei National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP) to ensure its continued relevance in addressing emerging challenges, aligning with the latest scientific findings, international obligations under the Paris Agreement, and the country’s long-term vision for sustainable and climate- resilient development. | Page 14 2. Time frames and/or periods for implementation 2a. Time frame and/or period 01 January 2026 – 31 December 2035 for implementation, including start and end date, consistent with any further relevant decision adopted by the CMA; 2b. Whether it is a single-year or Single Year Target for 2035. multi-year target, as applicable; 3. Scope and Coverage 3a. General description of the Economy-wide total GHG emissions reduction relative to target; BAU levels by 2035. 3b. Sectors, gases, categories The estimation of GHG emissions is categorised into four and pools covered by the sectors: Energy, Industrial Processes and Product Use nationally determined (IPPU), Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU), contribution, including, as and Waste. The geographic coverage of the GHG applicable, consistent with inventory is complete. It covers Brunei’s entire territorial IPCC guidelines; boundary. The greenhouse gases covered in the inventory included the following: a) Carbon dioxide (CO2) b) Methane (CH4) c) Nitrous oxide (N2O) 3c. How the Party has taken All categories of anthropogenic emissions and removals into consideration included. paragraphs 31(c) and (d) of decision 1/CP.21; 3d. Mitigation co-benefits As Brunei is still in the early stages of formulating its NAP resulting from Parties’ and noting that its iterative nature, Brunei might identify adaptation actions and/or and develop projects and strategies with mitigation co- economic diversification benefits on adaptation actions, provided adequate plans, including description financial, technical and capacity building support of specific projects, moving forward. | Page 15 measures and initiatives of Parties’ adaptation actions and/or economic diversification plans. 4. Planning Process 4a. Information on the planning processes that the Party undertook to prepare its NDC and, if available, on the Party’s implementation plans, including, as appropriate: 4a Domestic institutional Climate change planning and implementation are led by (i). arrangements, public climate change Lead Agencies, which consist of ministries participation and designated to take primary responsibility for coordinating engagement with local and implementing climate change policies, strategies, communities and and actions within a country (See Annex 1 for full list of indigenous peoples, in a coordinating ministries and agencies responsible for gender-responsive manner; climate actions) The governance structure includes the Brunei Darussalam National Council on Climate Change (BNCCC), which provides the highest level of strategic direction in addressing climate change. Co-chaired by the Minister at The Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, and the Minister of Development, the BNCCC's members include representatives from various ministries. Supporting the BNCCC is the Executive Committee on Climate Change (ExComm), chaired by the Deputy Minister (Energy), Prime Minister’s Office and consist of Permanent Secretaries, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and Managing Directors (MDs) from relevant public, private, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). BCCO serves as secretariat for both BNCCC and the ExComm. The ExComm oversees the Industrial Emissions Working Group (IEWG), Electric Vehicle Working Group (EVWG), and Adaptation and Resilience Working Group (ARWG). Membership in these committees spans across government, non-government, and academic bodies, ensuring a multi-sectoral approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Any decisions taken at ExComm and other bodies require endorsement by the BNCCC. Over the past years Brunei has been implementing strategies under the BNCCP to support its climate goals, including launching a Mandatory Reporting Directive on Greenhouse Gas in April 2023, requiring all facilities that | Page 16 emit and/or remove GHG, including government departments and private companies, to report their GHG emissions quarterly and annually starting in 2023. In addition, Lead Agencies have been progressively updating their respective policies to adapt to the evolving climate change landscape and align with emerging national and international commitments. In preparing NDC 3.0, the Brunei Government, led by BCCO, conducted a comprehensive review of the existing NDC, including an assessment of progress made, lessons learned, gaps identified, and expected future developments that may impact projections of its GHG emissions. Consultations with Lead Agencies and other key stakeholders across government, industry, and NGOs were then initiated to ensure alignment with national priorities and inclusivity in decision-making. Based on this evidence and engagement, updated targets and actions were proposed, taking into account current capabilities, future projections, and international climate commitments. The preliminary NDC underwent stakeholder and ExComm consultations, was endorsed by the BNCCC, and approved by the Office of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. 4a Contextual matters, The information is provided in Chapter 1 (Background) of (ii). including, inter alia, as this NDC report. appropriate: National Circumstances (geography, climate, economy, sustainable development and poverty eradication) 4a Best practices and Enhance Transparency and MRV (iii). experience related to the preparation of the From the ad hoc nature of GHG inventory reporting and nationally determined undefined institutional and procedural arrangement prior contribution to 2023, the national GHG inventory reporting system in Brunei has greatly improved with the launch of a Mandatory Reporting Directive on Greenhouse Gas in | Page 17 April 2023, requiring all facilities that emit and/or remove GHG, including government departments and private companies to report their GHG emissions quarterly and annually starting in 2023. This directive aligns with Article 4, Paragraphs 13-14 of the Paris Agreement, which emphasizes the need for transparency, accuracy, and consistency in accounting and tracking progress toward NDCs by mandating comprehensive GHG reporting, Brunei takes an important step in fulfilling its commitment to provide reliable and transparent data for monitoring emissions and removals. Requiring companies to submit emissions reports is key to maintaining a transparent and reliable carbon inventory, which depends on a robust measuring, reporting, and verification (MRV) system, as outlined in the Modalities, Procedures, and Guidelines (MPGs) of the Paris Agreement. To support this effort, a centralized online reporting platform is being developed to standardize data reporting and provide a user-friendly overview of greenhouse gas data. Under the Directive, Brunei adopted a Whole-of-Nation approach towards national GHG inventory preparation, which leverage on sectoral pool of expertise. The respective Sector Leads for Energy, Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU), Agriculture, Land-Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) and Waste Sectors are responsible to consolidate GHG reports from all data providers and perform quality control and quality assurance activities, among others. 4a Other contextual aspiration The support of domestic and international Financial, (iv). & priorities acknowledged Technical, and Capacity-building (FTC) resources is when joining the Paris crucial to help enable effective climate action. These Agreement; forms of support help bridge existing gaps in expertise, infrastructure, and financing which currently are hindering/delaying implementation of various climate strategies. With adequate FTC support such as Art 10.4 (Technology mechanism) and 10.5 (promote innovation), Brunei can enhance their institutional capacities, deploy low-carbon technologies, develop robust GHG inventories, and improve transparency in reporting. | Page 18 Moreover, technical assistance and capacity-building efforts empower the government and industry as well as other local stakeholders to plan, implement, and monitor climate actions more effectively, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience. Ultimately, FTC support is a cornerstone for equitable climate progress and the successful delivery of Brunei’s NDC, in line with Article 4.5 of the Paris Agreement, where “Support shall be provided to developing country Parties for the implementation of this Article, in accordance with Articles 9, 10, and 11, recognizing that enhanced support for developing country Parties will allow for higher ambition in their actions.”. 4b. Other contextual aspirations and priorities acknowledged when joining the Paris Agreement; 4b. Specific info applicable to While Brunei Darussalam continues to advocate for the Party, including regional timely formulation and communication LT-LEDS by economic integrations developed country Parties, Brunei as a developing organizations and their country Party, will communicate its long-term ambitions member State, that have primarily through its NDCs submitted every five years. reached an agreement to act jointly under Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Paris Agreement, including the Parties that agreed to act jointly and the terms of the agreement, in accordance with Article 4, paragraphs 16–18, of the Paris Agreement; 4c. How the Party’s Brunei Darussalam’s NDC commits to quantified emission preparation of its NDC has reductions consistent with global pathways to limit the been informed by the global average temperature rise to well below 2 °C outcomes of the global above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the stocktake, in accordance increase to 1.5 °C. These efforts are undertaken in the with Article 4, paragraph 9, context of a just and orderly transition towards a low- of the Paris Agreement; carbon and climate-resilient economy, while maintaining a responsible approach to the continued role of the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries in supporting economic diversification and national development. | Page 19 Recognizing its status as a developing country Party with a high degree of economic reliance on hydrocarbons, Brunei acknowledges the role of transitional fuels in facilitating the energy transition and ensuring national energy security. These national circumstances have been an important consideration in determining the scope, ambition, and implementation pathway of Brunei’s NDC target. 4d Each Party with an NDC The effects on vulnerability, resilience, economic (i). under Article 4 of the Paris transformation and standards of living were considered in Agreement that consists of developing the revised NDC. adaptation action and/or economic diversification plans resulting in mitigation co-benefits consistent with Article 4, paragraph 7, of the Paris Agreement to submit information on: 4d Specific projects, measures As Brunei is still in the early stages of formulating its (ii). & activities to be National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and noting its iterative implemented to contribute nature, Brunei might identify and develop projects and to mitigation co-benefits, strategies with mitigation co-benefits on adaptation including information on actions, provided adequate financial, technical and adaptation plans that also capacity building support moving forward. yield mitigation co-benefits, which may cover, but are Brunei has classified 6 key sectors as national priorities for not limited to, key sectors, building resilience and enhancing preparedness in the such as energy, resources, National Adaptation Plan (NAP), namely: Agriculture and water resources, coastal Food Security, Biodiversity and Environment, Health and resources, human Livelihood, Infrastructure and Urban Resilience, Marine settlements & urban Protection and Coastal Resilience, as well as Water planning, agriculture & Resources. By strategically focusing on these sectors, the forestry; & economic country stands posed to not only navigate the diversification actions, complexities of environmental changes, but also thrive in which may cover, but are the face of adversity. not limited to, sectors such as manufacturing & industry, energy & mining, transport/communication, construction, tourism, real estate, agriculture & fisheries; | Page 20 5. Assumptions and methodological approaches, including those for estimating and accounting for anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and, as appropriate, removals: 5a. Assumptions and Brunei’s GHG Inventory was prepared in accordance with methodological approach the requirements of the UNFCCC using 2006 IPCC used for accounting for guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, anthropogenic greenhouse supplemented by 2019 IPCC Refinement and utilises the gas emissions and removals associated IPCC software. The methodology and dataset corresponding to the used were improved on the previous inventories. Some Party’s NDC, consistent with new datasets were used and period recalculations were 1/CP.21, paragraph 31, performed, mostly for the new inventory years. and accounting guidance adopted by the CMA; 5b. Assumptions and N/A methodological approach used for accounting for the implementation of policies and measures or strategies in the NDC; 5c. If applicable, information Brunei's current GHG inventory has been prepared in on how the Party will accordance with Decision 24/CP.19 and is based on the consider existing methods 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas and guidance under the Inventories. Convention to account for anthropogenic emissions In line with Article 4, paragraph 14, of the Paris and removals, in Agreement, Brunei will continue to apply these accordance with Article 4, established methods and guidance under the paragraph 14, of the Paris Convention when accounting for anthropogenic Agreement as appropriate; emissions and removals for the purpose of tracking progress towards its NDC. Any methodological improvements or recalculations will be documented and explained to maintain clarity, transparency, and understanding, as required under the Enhanced Transparency Framework. This is undertaken in line with the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) under Article 13 of the Paris Agreement, which requires Parties to provide transparent, consistent, comparable, complete, and accurate information to track progress towards their nationally determined contributions. | Page 21 5d. IPCC methodologies and Brunei generally applies the Tier 1 IPCC methodology metrics used for estimating across most sectors, except in cases where available anthropogenic GHG national data enables the adoption of a higher-tier emissions and removals; methods. 1. Energy Sector: Tier 1 methods are used for estimating emissions from most fuel combustion sub-categories while Tier 3 approaches are implemented for fuel combustion in Petroleum Refining and Other Energy Industries, as well as for fugitive emissions from oil and natural gas. 2. IPPU Sector: a hybrid approach combining Tier 1 and Tier 3 methods are applied. 3. AFOLU Sector: a hybrid Tier 1 and Tier 2 approach applied, using IPCC default alongside region- specific biomass growth rates. 4. Waste Sector: a hybrid Tier 1 and Tier 2 method is used to waste disposal, combining default IPCC parameters with reliable country-specific activity data for both current and historical waste disposal at Solid Waste Disposal Sites (SWDS), while Tier 1 is applied for Wastewater treatment. The 100-year time-horizon Global Warming Potential (GWP) values from the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) were used to convert the estimated CH4 and N2O emissions to Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). 5e. Sector, category or activity specific assumptions, methodologies and approaches consistent with IPCC guidance, as appropriate, including, as applicable: 5e Approach to addressing Brunei applies IPCC Gain-Loss Method (Tier 1) to estimate (i). emissions and subsequent emissions and removals from natural disturbances in removals from natural managed lands. disturbances on managed lands; Activity data on forest land area are sourced from Brunei Darussalam’s Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) 2015 Country Report. Additionally, Brunei’s forest inventory is expected to be updated by end of 2025 which also includes data on biomass carbon stock. Activity data for wood/fuelwood, as well as forest fires are provided by relevant Government agencies through Sector Lead. | Page 22 Brunei uses a hybrid approach for estimating carbon stock changes: Tier 1 for activity data, and Tier 2 for biomass growth rates, combining IPCC default factors with region-specific values across forest types. Carbon losses are estimated using data on wood and fuelwood removals and disturbances such as forest fires. The annual change in carbon stocks in biomass is then estimated by considering the net CO2 removals, which involves adding up the annual carbon gain with carbon loss in biomass. 5e Approach used to account Due to limited data availability and technical capacity, (ii). for emissions and removals emissions and removals from HWPs are not estimated. from harvested wood products (HWP); 5e Approach used to address Brunei applies Tier 1 approach consistent with the 2006 (iii). the effects of age-class IPCC Guidelines. The country is characterized by tropical structure in forests; rainforests and majority of which are mature with stands generally older than 20 years. 5f. Other assumptions and methodological approaches used for understanding the nationally determined contribution and, if applicable, estimating corresponding emissions and removals, including: 5f How the reference Not applicable. Please see Section 5(a-e) for assumptions (i). indicators, baselines &/or and methodologies used. reference levels, including, where applicable, sector, category or activity specific reference levels, are constructed, including, for example, key parameters, assumptions, definitions, methodologies, data sources and models used; 5f For Parties with NDC that Not applicable. (ii). contain non GHG components, information | Page 23 on assumptions & methodological approach used in relation to those components as applicable; 5f For climate forcers included Not applicable. (iii). in nationally determined contributions not covered by IPCC guidelines, information on how the climate forcers are estimated; 5f Further technical info as Not applicable. (iv). necessary; Brunei is currently studying the feasibility of Voluntary 5g. The intention to use Cooperation as part of its Carbon Pricing assessment. voluntary cooperation While still in its early days, Brunei has inked an MoU to under Article 6 of the Paris identify Article 6.2 cooperation with a neighboring Agreement, if applicable; country. 5h. The intention to engage in N/A REDD+ initiatives, if applicable. 6. How the Party considers that its NDC is fair and ambitious in light of its national circumstances 6a. How the Party considers Brunei’s contribution is considered in the context of other that its NDC is fair and countries' mitigation actions, especially those of the ambitious in light of its Annex-I Parties of the UNFCCC. This aligns with Article 3.1 national circumstances. of the Convention, which calls for climate action based on equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and capabilities. As a developing country, meeting its needs will require scaling up infrastructure and energy use. Brunei’s commitments under the Convention and the Paris Agreement aim to ensure efficient growth that allows for development while contributing to mitigating GHG emissions. Brunei Darussalam’s commitment reflects its national circumstances and priorities, recognizing the vital contribution of the oil and gas sector to economic development, while simultaneously advancing efforts to | Page 24 transition towards a low-carbon and sustainable economy. As climate impacts intensify, Brunei Darussalam requires the mean to strengthen its adaptive capacity and resilience to safeguard its people, environment, infrastructure, and economy. 6b. Fairness considerations, As per 6a including reflecting on equity; 6c. How the Party has Brunei Darussalam has ensured that its updated NDC addressed Article 4, represents a progression beyond its first NDC and reflects paragraph 3, of the Paris the country’s highest possible ambition in light of its Agreement; national circumstances, capabilities, and development priorities. The target year for its emission reduction commitment has been extended to 2035, with the same 20% reduction from BAU levels, thereby covering a longer timeframe and providing greater cumulative emission reductions over the implementation period. These enhancements reflect Brunei’s highest possible ambition while balancing the need to safeguard its economic stability, food security, and social welfare as a hydrocarbon-dependent developing country, consistent with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities under the Paris Agreement. 6d. How the Party has Brunei’s updated target is to be viewed in the context of addressed Article 4, Brunei’s small and developing economy and the inherent paragraph 4, of the Paris limitations in natural, financial, technological, and Agreement; capacity (FTC) needed to implement the required emissions reduction measures. Brunei plans to expand its scope of its NDC by including two new sub-sectors 1) AFOLU and 2) IPPU and aims to further broaden its coverage to additional sectors and sub-sectors. Progress toward economy-wide targets remains conditional on the availability of capacity- building support and enhanced resources for data collection. | Page 25 6e. How the Party has Although the NDC primarily focuses on mitigation, the addressed Article 4, country’s adaptation strategies along with considerations paragraph 6, of the Paris of potential limits to adaptation that could lead to loss Agreement; and damage are detailed in Brunei’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP). 7. How the NDC contributes towards achieving the objectives of the Convention as set out in its Article 2 7a. How the NDC contributes Brunei Darussalam remains fully committed to global towards achieving the climate action. As a responsible member of the objective of the international community, Brunei is implementing a whole- Convention as set out in its of-nation approach to address the climate crisis through Article 2; the lens of economic pragmatism, one that reflects its national circumstances as a developing country Party while contributing meaningfully to global efforts under the UNFCCC This commitment directly supports the Convention’s objective, as set out in its Article 2, by pursuing actions that contribute to the stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations at levels that prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Through the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP), adopted in 2020, the country is implementing strategies aimed at achieving a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions relative to BAU levels by 2035, while conserving up to 55% of its landmass as pristine rainforest. These actions contribute to the global temperature goal and help safeguard food security, protect ecosystem integrity, and promote sustainable economic development within the timeframe envisioned by the Convention. 7b. How the NDC contributes Brunei Darussalam’s NDC contributes to Article 2, towards Article 2, paragraph 1(a), of the Paris Agreement by committing to paragraph 1(a), and Article quantified emission reductions and sustainable land 4, paragraph 1, of the Paris management measures that align with global pathways Agreement; to limit temperature rise to well below 2 °C above pre- industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 °C. These efforts include transitioning towards a low- carbon and climate-resilient economy while maintaining a responsible approach to the continued role of oil, gas, and petrochemical industries in funding economic diversification and national development. | Page 26
ANNEX 1 Coordinating Ministries and Agencies Responsible for Climate Actions AREA SECTOR MINISTRIES/GOVERNMENT AGENCIES Greenhouse All IPCC Sectors • Brunei Climate Change Office, Prime Minister’s Office Inventory • Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism • Department of Electrical Services, Prime Minister's Office • Department of Energy, Prime Minister’s Office • Department of Environment, Park and Recreation, Ministry of Development • Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism • Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications Mitigation Energy • Department of Energy, Prime Minister’s Office Industrial Processes • Department of Energy, Prime Minister’s Office Transport • Department of Energy, Prime Minister’s Office • Land Transport Department, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications Forestry • Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Land-Use Change • Department of Town and Country Planning, Ministry of Development Agriculture • Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Waste • Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Ministry of Development Adaptation Infrastructure & • Authority on Building Control and Construction Industry, Urban Resilience Ministry of Development • Department of Town and Country Planning, Ministry of Development Health & Livelihood • Ministry of Health • National Disaster Management Centre, Ministry of Home Affairs Biodiversity & • Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Environment Ministry of Development • Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Agriculture & Food • Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Ministry of Security Primary Resources and Tourism • Fisheries Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Marine Protection • Department of Drainage and Sewerage, Ministry of & Coastal Development Resilience • Survey Department, Ministry of Development Water Resources • Department of Drainage and Sewerage, Ministry of Development • Department of Water Services, Ministry of Development | Page 27